Learn to use stacked decreases

If you've learned how to work a stacked decrease in my first article and possibly tried making an oak leaf, you're ready to come up with your own patterns that use this unique stitch. This article is going to focus on how to adjust the height of your stacks  and go over some of the math. Don't worry, it's not too hard.

Learn to knit stacked decreases

Some knitters have been asking about stacked decreases lately. In response, I've put together this article, a video tutorial, and a free pattern that uses this technique in a few ways.  Since publishing my Petal Cowl and Fox Paws patterns, there have been many emails from knitters asking whether they're interpreting the pattern right or wondering how I took these stitches and put them together into a pattern.

I'll go over the basics of how to do the decrease here, then, in the next article, we'll move on to some design tips.

Oak Leaf Pattern

The Oak Leaf is a fun little introduction to stacked decreases. This technique can be used to create lobe shaped edging, flame stitch motifs, and shaping. Stacked decreases are worked by slipping stitches back to the left needle to work them again.

Phillip Frond's sweater

Those of you who follow this blog may have noticed that there was no Fiber Friday this week, that's because I was at New York Comic Con for the day. I decided to cosplay Mr. Frond, the guidance counselor at the Wagstaff School from Bob's Burgers.

In case any of you want to do this for Halloween, I'm posting the lettering chart here.

Fox Paws and Color Choice

If you're one of the many people who has started knitting Fox Paws in the last few weeks, you know that there are certain advantages to using 5 colors of yarn. They generally look good because there are so many of them. In any case, the questions have been coming in about what to pick, how I picked my colors, and how to arrange them in the best order.  I'm posting this to show a bit of color theory and process behind my decisions. I'd like to encourage all of you to add some advice that you have for other knitters as well.

How did I pick my colors? Let me explain.

Fiber Friday: Couture beading, knit glass, and organic embroidery

1. Tambour beading is a type of beaded embroidery often seen on couture gowns. If you have never heard of it, check out this blog post showing examples and finished works. It even has a link to a YouTube video showing how it's done and a class in the technique.